This paper explores the relationship between judicial independence and different methods of reappointment on state supreme courts. I offer a new theory to explain state court judicial behavior – that as reappointment uncertainty increases, judicial independence decreases. Independent behavior occurs when campaign contributions do not influence judicial decisions. This paper analyzes campaign contributions to judicial elections in 26 states using the State Supreme Court Data Project. An instrumental variables probit analysis reveals some direct evidence of special interest contributions influencing votes in cases affecting that industry.